Automotive Vehicle Through Body Storage with Combination Door and Step

ABSTRACT

An automotive vehicle with a storage compartment has a cabin, a set of rear wheels located behind the cabin, a cargo space, and a closable integrated storage compartment located adjacent to the cabin, rearward of a rear-most seat of the automotive vehicle, and forward of the set of rear wheels. At least a portion of the storage compartment is positioned forward of a forward wall of the cargo space. The storage compartment has at least one sidewall enclosing an interior portion of the storage compartment and extending from a first side panel at a first side of the automotive vehicle toward a second side of the automotive vehicle, a first opening to the storage compartment at the first side of the automotive vehicle, and a first door at the first opening. The first door has a first step member with a horizontal step surface when open.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to storage compartments for automotivevehicles including electric and hybrid vehicles and more particularly tosystems for providing through body storage combined with step functionfor automotive vehicles, including electric and hybrid vehicles.

BACKGROUND

Electric vehicles, including hybrid vehicles, are of great interest fortransportation applications and can provide benefits of low or zeroemissions, quiet operation and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.However, conventional electric vehicles have relatively low rates ofutilization. One of the challenges associated with electric vehiclesobserved by the present inventors is effective configuration of storagespace for such vehicles.

The present inventors have observed a need for enhancing efficientutilization of storage space in automotive vehicles including electricvehicles. Exemplary approaches described herein may address such needs.

SUMMARY

An automotive vehicle with a storage compartment is disclosed, having acabin, a set of rear wheels located behind the cabin, a cargo space, anda closable integrated storage compartment assembly located adjacent tothe cabin, rearward of a rear-most seat of the automotive vehicle, andforward of the set of rear wheels. The storage compartment has at leastone sidewall enclosing an interior portion of the storage compartmentand extending from a first side panel at a first side of the automotivevehicle toward a second side of the automotive vehicle, a first openingto the storage compartment at the first side of the automotive vehicle,and a first door at the first opening. The first door has a first stepmember with a horizontal step surface when open, e.g., to facilitateaccess to a roof of the automotive vehicle. At least a portion of thestorage compartment is positioned forward of a forward wall of the cargospace. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are alsodescribed.

The automotive vehicle may have a latch mechanism to secure and lock thefirst door in a closed position. The first door may have a second stepmember positioned at a second height different from a first height ofthe first step member. The storage compartment assembly may have asecond door at a second opening of the storage compartment, the secondopening at the second side of the automotive vehicle. The automotivevehicle may have a safety lock that prevents vehicle operation when thefirst door is open. The first door may be capable of opening downward,such that when open, the first door is substantially parallel to aground surface. The automotive vehicle may be, e.g., a truck such as apickup truck, and the storage compartment may be located such that it isnot positioned under a truck bed of the truck. The storage compartmentmay have a weatherproof seal between the first door and the firstopening. The storage compartment may include a forward door to permitaccess to the storage compartment from the cabin. The storagecompartment may have a rear door to permit access to the storagecompartment from a cargo space located rearward of the storagecompartment.

A closable and lockable storage compartment assembly for an automotivevehicle is also disclosed. The storage compartment assembly comprises atleast one wall enclosing a storage space, extends through a width of theautomotive vehicle, and is located adjacent to a vehicle cabin andrearward of a rear-most seat of the automotive vehicle. At least aportion of the storage space is located forward of a forward wall of acargo space of the automotive vehicle. The storage compartment alsoincludes a first opening at a first side of the automotive vehicle, asecond opening at a second side of the automotive vehicle, a first doorattached to the automotive vehicle at the first opening, and a seconddoor attached to the automotive vehicle at the second opening, a firstmechanism configured to open and close the first door, and a secondmechanism configured to open and close the second door. The first andsecond mechanisms may be, for example, hinge mechanisms or slidermechanisms, or a combination thereof. The first door and/or second doormay be configured to open downward to provide a weight-bearing stepconfigured to support a load of up to 500 lbs. The first door and/orsecond door may have a storage receptacle. The storage space may belocated such that it is not positioned in the cabin. The automotivevehicle may have a wiring harness supplying electrical power to thefirst door. The automotive vehicle may have sensors in electricalcommunication with the wiring harness, e.g., to detect open and closedpositions of the first and/or second doors. The storage compartment mayinclude a forward door to permit access to the storage space from thecabin. The storage compartment may have a rear door to permit access tothe storage space from a cargo space located rearward of the storagecompartment.

A combination step and storage assembly for an automotive vehicle isalso disclosed. The step and storage assembly includes at least one wallenclosing a storage space extending into a body of an automotive vehiclefrom a side of the automotive vehicle, the side of the automotivevehicle extending between a front of the automotive vehicle and a rearof the automotive vehicle, a first door configured to access the storagespace at the side of the automotive vehicle, and a weight-bearinghorizontal step provided by the first door to facilitate access to aroof of the automotive vehicle. The automotive vehicle may have a frontaccess door to the storage space from the cabin. The automotive vehiclemay have a rear access door to the storage space from a cargo spacelocated rearward of the storage space. A volume of the storage space maybe between 6 cubic feet and 15 cubic feet. The first door may be capableof opening sideways, such that when open, a seat surface of the firstdoor is substantially perpendicular to a ground surface. The automotivevehicle may be a unibody truck comprising a roof and a cargo bed.

The subject matter described herein may provide various technicaladvantages, including the following. Exemplary integrated storagecompartments as disclosed herein may provide useful, unobstructedstorage space for substantially a full width of an automotive vehiclethat does not interfere with occupant seating. Exemplary door(s) thatseal the exemplary integrated storage compartment may be configured toserve as horizontal steps when open, i.e., on which a user may step, toimprove accessibility of items located on the roof or in the trunk or ina cargo bed or truck bed of the automotive vehicle, e.g., to provide aneasy path to step into a storage bed of the automotive vehicle from theground. Exemplary door(s) that seal the exemplary integrated storagecompartment may be configured to provide horizontal exterior seatingsurfaces (i.e., exterior to the vehicle cabin) for occupants when theautomotive vehicle is parked. Exemplary integrated storage compartmentsas disclosed herein may increase the storage space and enhanceutilization of space available of an automotive vehicle including anelectric vehicle.

Exemplary details and variations of the subject matter described hereinare set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.Other features and advantages of the subject matter described hereinwill be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vehicle with aside-access storage compartment, which may also be referred to herein asa side bin or a storage bin.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating another example of a vehicle with aside-access storage compartment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vehicle with aside-access storage compartment having a sliding door.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vehicle with aside-access storage compartment having a hinged door.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment structure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment door in an open position providing a step function.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment door in a closed position.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment door connection to vehicle.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating an example of a side-accessstorage compartment door in an open position with a second step.

FIGS. 10-10C are diagrams illustrating another example of a side-accessstorage compartment door with a removable insert to facilitate storageof lengthy items in the storage compartment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment door in an open position with a door that opens sideways viaa first hinge and with a step that folds downward from the compartmentdoor via a second hinge.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment door in an open position with a door that opens sideways viaa combination of a first hinge and a sliding mechanism and with a stepthat folds downward from a body of the automotive vehicle via a secondhinge.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a side-access storagecompartment door in an open position with a door that opens sideways viaa combination of a first hinge and a first sliding mechanism and with astep that slides outward from a body of the automotive vehicle via asecond sliding mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An exemplary integrated side-access storage compartment of an automotivevehicle is disclosed herein according to various nonlimiting examples.For any examples, the automotive vehicle may be a passenger vehicle, apickup truck, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), etc., each of which mayhave one or more rows of seats to accommodate human passengers. Thestorage compartment may be integrated into the body of the automotivevehicle. The storage compartment may have a storage compartment doorthat may open sideways or downward. The storage compartment door mayincorporate a weight-bearing (load-bearing) step on which a user may sitor on which a user may step to facilitate user access to a roof or cargospace (e.g., cargo bed, which may also be referred to as a truck bed) ofthe automotive vehicle. The storage compartment may extend though thefull width of the automotive vehicle. The storage compartment may belocated adjacent to a cabin of the automotive vehicle and integratedinto a body thereof, and may be located rearward of a rear-most seat ofthe automotive vehicle and forward of a set of rear wheels, wherein atleast a portion of the storage compartment may be positioned forward ofa forward wall of a cargo space. The storage compartment may include aforward door to permit access to the storage compartment from the cabin.The storage compartment may also include rear door to permit access tothe storage space from the cargo space located rearward of the storagespace. Other exemplary aspects are also disclosed. Like referencesymbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example 100 of an automotive vehicle102, such as an electric vehicle, with a side-access storagecompartment, which may also be referred to as a storage space, a sidebin, or storage bin. An automotive vehicle 102 may have a front portion104 and a rear portion 106. A cabin 108 is typically located between thefront and rear portions of the vehicle. The cabin 108 may include entrydoors 109. There may be one, two, three, four, or five or more entrydoors 109 to the cabin 108, which may contain one or more rows ofseating for human occupants. Automotive vehicle 102 has a right side 110and a left side 112. Left side 112 may be referred to as a driver sideof the vehicle, and right side 110 may be referred to as a passengerside of the vehicle. In cases where the vehicle is an autonomous vehiclethat does not require or is not configured for a human driver, the leftside of the vehicle may still be referred to as a driver side as amatter of convenience. One or more of the entry doors may be located onthe left side 112 of the vehicle, and one or more entry doors may belocated on the right side 110 of the vehicle.

Automotive vehicle 102 typically has a roof 114. Roof 114 may have racksor other equipment for storage (not shown). Automotive vehicle 102 mayhave a chassis or unibody 116. Automotive vehicle 102 may have a cargospace, such as cargo bed or truck bed 118 or, alternatively, a trunk.Cargo bed 118 is typically located at the rear portion 106 of thevehicle. Automotive vehicle 102 may have one or more front wheels 120and one or more rear wheels 122. Automotive vehicle 102 may be a unibodytruck, which may have a storage bed. The body of the automotive vehicle102 may be constructed of steel alloy and/or aluminum alloy or othermaterials as conventionally known in the art.

In an example, automotive vehicle 102 may have a side-access storagecompartment 124, which may also be referred to as a storage bin or sidebin. Storage compartment 124 may be closable and lockable. Storagecompartment 124 may be integrated into a body of the automotive vehicle.Storage compartment 124 may be located toward the rear of the vehiclecabin 108, e.g., rearward of a rear-most seat of the automotive vehicle.As with other examples disclosed herein at least a portion of thestorage compartment 124 may be located forward of a forward wall of thecargo bed 118, or cargo space, or trunk in examples where a trunk isutilized, and preferably at least one-half the volume of the storagecompartment 124 is located forward of a forward wall of such a rearcargo space. Storage compartment 124 may be located forward of the rearwheel 122 and may have one or more openings 128. An opening 128 to thestorage compartment 124 may be at the left side 112 of the automotivevehicle 102. Another opening 128 to the storage compartment 124 may beat the right side 110 of the automotive vehicle 102. Storage compartment124 may extend through the full width of the vehicle 102, such that ithas openings 128 on both the left side 112 of the automotive vehicle 102and on the right side 110 of the automotive vehicle 102.

Some of openings 128 or each of openings 128 may have a storagecompartment door 126. Storage compartment 124 may include at least onesidewall 125 enclosing an interior portion of the storage compartmentand extending from a first side panel at a first (e.g., left) side ofthe automotive vehicle to a second side panel at a second (e.g., right)side of the automotive vehicle. If storage compartment 124 extendsthrough the full width of the vehicle 102, or extends between twostorage compartment openings, then it may have doors 126 on both ends tocover each of the openings 128. Storage compartment 124 may be lockable.Volume of the storage space may be between 2 cubic feet and 10 cubicfeet, between 6 cubic feet and 15 cubic feet, between 10 cubic feet and50 cubic feet, or between 20 cubic feet and 200 cubic feet.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating another example 200 of an automotivevehicle 202 with a side-access storage compartment. Automotive vehicle202 in this example may have a rear portion 206 with a rear cargo space(trunk) 218, e.g., behind a row of occupant seating, that may beinternal to the rear portion 206. Rear cargo space 218 may be referredto as a trunk or as a cargo bed. As in this example, the rear portion206 of the automotive vehicle 202 may have no trunk. Automotive vehicle202 may have a storage compartment 224. Storage compartment 224 mayinclude at least one sidewall 225 enclosing an interior portion of thestorage compartment 224 and extending from a first side panel at a first(e.g., left) side of the automotive vehicle to a second side panel at asecond (e.g., right) side of the automotive vehicle. Storage compartment224 may have one or more openings 228. Each of openings 228 may have astorage compartment door 226. One opening 228 of storage compartment 224may be on the left side 212 of the automotive vehicle 202. Storagecompartment 224 may extend through the full width of the automotivevehicle 202, such that it has openings 228 on both the left side 212 ofthe automotive vehicle 202 and on the right side 210 of the automotivevehicle 202. If storage compartment 224 extends through the full widthof the automotive vehicle 202, then it may have doors 226 on both endsto cover each of the openings 228. One or more of doors 226 may have astorage receptacle 229, which may include a cover such as a hingedcover. Storage compartment 224 may have an entry door 231 from a trunkspace 218. Storage compartment 224 may have a storage space locatedadjacent to a vehicle cabin 208 and forward of a cargo space 218 of theautomotive vehicle 202, e.g., such that at least a portion of thestorage compartment is located forward of a forward wall of the cargospace 218. In an example, a seat-back of a rear seat of the automotivevehicle 202 may serve as a forward wall of the cargo space. In theexample of FIG. 2, the cargo space may be located at the rear of theautomotive vehicle 202 and span an area behind and above the rear wheelsof the automotive vehicle 202.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example 300 of an automotive vehicle302 with a storage compartment having a storage compartment door thatopens laterally while retaining an upright, vertical orientation. Inthis example, automotive vehicle 302 may have a storage compartment 324.Storage compartment 324 may include at least one sidewall 325 enclosingan interior portion of the storage compartment 324 and extending from afirst side panel at a first (e.g., left) side of the automotive vehicleto a second side panel at a second (e.g., right) side of the automotivevehicle. Storage compartment 324 may have one or more openings 328. Eachof the openings 328 may have a storage compartment door 326. Diagram 300shows the storage compartment door 326 in an open position. When storagecompartment door 326 is in an open position, opening 328 is open andaccessible. When storage compartment door 326 is open, it may bepossible to place items for storage into the storage compartment 324, orto remove items from the storage compartment 324. Diagram 300 shows anexample where the storage compartment door 326 in its open position islocated to the rear of the opening 328. Mechanism 336 allows for openingand closing of the storage compartment door 326. Mechanism 336 may be asliding mechanism (e.g., a powered sliding mechanism such asconventionally used in minivan side doors), or a hinge, or a set ofhinges, or another opening mechanism. Storage compartment door 326 inits open position may have its exterior surface facing away from thevehicle. This may occur, for example, when mechanism 336 is a slidingmechanism. Storage compartment door 326 in its open position may haveits exterior surface facing toward the vehicle. This may occur, forexample, when mechanism 336 is a hinge mechanism. The automotive vehicle302 may have one or more front seats 305 and may have one or more rearseats 307. The automotive vehicle 302 may have a cargo space behind arear seat 307 that is in addition to and different from the storagecompartment 324, as is the case with other examples disclosed herein.The automotive vehicle 302 may also have a cargo space behind a frontseat 305 and in front of a rear seat 307 that is in addition to anddifferent from the storage compartment 324, as is the case with otherexamples disclosed herein.

In some examples, storage compartment 324 may be positioned rearward ofa seat 307 that has a back 307A and a base 307B. Seat 307 may be a rearseat of the automotive vehicle, or a front seat of the automotivevehicle, e.g., where storage compartment 324 may be positioned rearwardof a single row of seats of the automotive vehicle 302. In someexamples, storage compartment 324 may be positioned longitudinallybetween two rows of seats of the automotive vehicle 302. In suchinstances the storage compartment 324 may further be positioned suchthat as least a portion thereof is positioned below a vehicle floor ofthe automotive vehicle, e.g., such that about one-half the verticalheight of the storage compartment 324, or more, is positioned below afloor level of the automotive vehicle 324. In some examples, storagecompartment 324 may be positioned in an automotive vehicle without seats(e.g., for driverless vehicles, or in an automotive vehicle with only asingle driver seat.

FIG. 4 is a diagram 400 illustrating an example of a vehicle with a sidecompartment having a hinged door. Vehicle 402 may have a storagecompartment 424. Storage compartment 424 may include at least onesidewall 425 enclosing an interior portion of the storage compartment424 and extending from a first side panel at a first (e.g., left) sideof the automotive vehicle to a second side panel at a second (e.g.,right) side of the automotive vehicle. Storage compartment 424 may haveone or more openings 428. Each opening 428 may have a storagecompartment door 426. Mechanism 438 allows for opening and closing ofthe storage compartment door 426. In the example illustrated in diagram400, mechanism 438 may be a hinge or a set of hinges. Storagecompartment door 426 may be open in such a way that maintains anupright, vertical orientation such that its surface that faces theopening 428 when in a closed position, faces outward, i.e., away fromthe vehicle, when in an open position. Storage compartment door 426 mayopen toward the rear of the vehicle, or toward the front of the vehicle,or up (toward the top of the vehicle), or down (toward the bottom of thevehicle).

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example 500 of a storage compartmentstructure. Storage compartment 524 may have a first opening 528 on theleft side of the vehicle. Storage compartment 524 may have a secondopening 534 on the right side of the vehicle. Storage compartment 524may have one or more sidewalls 530. Sidewall(s) 530 may be a continuouswall that is entirely curved in cross section, a continuous wall thatincludes both curved portions and straight portions in cross section, ora continuous wall with straight and/or curved portions in cross sectionwith defined edges between sidewalls. In examples, the sidewall(s) maybe composed of several pieces of panel material assembled together. Ifwall 530 is composed of several pieces, they may be connected togetherby welding, or with fasteners, or by glue, or using another means ofconnecting components. Sidewall(s) 530 may be made out of plastic, metalalloy such as steel sheet or aluminum alloy sheet or the like, compositematerials, or other suitable material. Sidewall(s) 530 may be fabricatedby stamping and bending the material into a suitable shape and joiningthe material at the edges, extruding the material, or by any othersuitable approach or combination of processes. Sidewall(s) 530 may haveone or more corner regions 532. Alternatively, sidewall(s) 530 may havea smooth surface, such that it has no abrupt corners. In examples,sidewall(s) 530 is smooth and without gaps or corners in circumferentialdirection. In examples, the sidewall(s) 530 may be configured in crosssection such that adjacent portions of sidewall(s) transition one to theother with a radius of curvature no less than 4 inches where the cornerregion supports an extruded weather-strip seal and no less than 0.5inches where the corner supports a molder weather-strip seal. In someexamples, the storage compartment may be shaped in cross section in asubstantially rectangular shape, e.g., square shape, such as shown inFIG. 1 for instance. In other examples, the storage compartment may beshaped in cross section in an asymmetric shape, e.g., a polygon shapewith no right angles between one sidewall portion and an adjacentsidewall portion and with one sidewall that is longer in cross sectionthan the rest of the sidewalls, such as illustrated in the example ofFIG. 5. Such a storage compartment 524 with a polygon shape in crosssection may have 4, 5, 6 or more sidewall portions that include straightportions, with or without abrupt corners therebetween. Dimensions of thestorage compartment may include nominal height, width, and depth in thefollowing ranges: height 10-30 inches, width 10-30 inches, depth 30-80inches. These dimensions are exemplary, and the storage compartment isnot limited to these dimensions.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example 600 of a storage compartmentdoor (or side bin door) in an open position providing a horizontal stepsurface. Example 600 shows a storage compartment opening 628 and astorage compartment door 626. In this example, storage compartment door626 opens downward, toward the bottom of the vehicle. A movement of thestorage compartment door 626 between its closed position to its openposition may be provided by one or more hinges 638 attached to both thevehicle and the door 626. In examples, there are two or more hinges 638.Storage compartment door 626 may have an outer door panel 640. Doorpanel 640 may have an internal surface 652 and an external surface (notshown). Storage compartment door 626 may have a door housing 642, anddoor housing 642 may have door side surface 650. Storage compartmentdoor 626 may have a door seal 644 and a step surface 646. The door 626may be secured in a closed position by a latch mechanism including abody side latch part 641 and a door side latch part 643, as illustratedschematically in FIG. 6. Any suitable latching mechanisms known in theart may be used in this regard. In some examples, step surface 646 facesup when storage compartment door 626 is in an open position. Storagecompartment door 626 may be designed such that its capable of beingopened downward such that a planar major surface thereof (e.g., surface646) is substantially parallel to a ground surface (i.e., to withinabout ±10 degrees of a horizontal direction) or opened to the side suchthat a planar major surface thereof is substantially perpendicular to aground surface (i.e., parallel to within about ±10 degrees of a verticaldirection) depending upon the placement of hinges 638 that connect thedoor 626 to a body portion 660 of the vehicle body.

When storage compartment door 626 is in a closed position, externalsurface of the door panel 640 may be flat with the side of the vehicle.In a closed position, door side surface 650 may fit inside vehicle sideopening 654. Vehicle side opening 654 may have a surface 656, such thatthere is a small gap between surface 656 and door side surface 650 whenstorage compartment door 626 is in a closed position. When storagecompartment door 626 is in a closed position, door seal 644 may seal agap between storage compartment door 626 and a storage flange 658. Suchseal may be designed to prevent access of moisture or other contaminantsinto the storage compartment when storage compartment door 626 isclosed.

Storage compartment door 626 may be further connected to the vehiclechassis with a door strap 648 that may limit the travel of the door 626and/or reduce a load on the hinges 638 if a load is placed on thestorage compartment door, such as a human stepping on the step surface646. Door strap 648 may be made out of plastic, or metal, or cable, orother suitable material. Storage compartment door 626 may be supportedby one or several door straps 648. Storage compartment door 626, and theassociated opening mechanism (e.g., hinge mechanism) may be constructedof strong materials such as steel or aluminum alloy or other suitablematerial so as to withstand heavy loads of, e.g., 300 lbs, 400 lbs, 500lbs, or more, which may be placed on the storage compartment door in itsopen position when used as a step or other support surface. In someexamples a door cable 648 may be connected to a motorized closingmechanism pulls the cable over a pulley (not shown) at the vehiclechassis.

Storage compartment door 626 may be designed to serve as a seat as wellas a step when in its open position. For example, the door 626 may beconfigured such that the step surface 646 will be positioned at acomfortable distance from the ground (e.g., 12-18 inches) for a typicalsitting adult when storage compartment door 626 is in its open positionand such that the width and depth of the step surface 646 cancomfortably accommodate a sitting adult; eliminating sharp edges andcorners from the surfaces of the storage compartment door 626 to avoidinjuring a sitting person.

Configuring the storage door 626 such that the step surface 646 is at aheight of 12-18 inches from ground when in the open position provides auseful step height such that the person standing on it may comfortablyreach the roof of the vehicle to place an item on the roof or to removean item from the roof. The step surface 646 also provides a convenientmeans such that a person stepping on it also may comfortably reach toremove or place items in a cargo bed of the vehicle. The step surface646 also provides a convenient means such that the person standing on itmay comfortably step into or out of the cargo bed of the vehicle. Stepsurface 646 can be a non-skid surface. Step surface 646 can be arubberized surface, or an abrasive non-skid surface.

Storage door 626 may be designed, depending on the need of a vehicleuser, to open either downward such that the step surface 646 issubstantially horizontal (i.e., parallel to the ground surface) whenstorage door 626 is fully open, or sideways such that the surface 646 issubstantially vertical (i.e., perpendicular to the ground surface) whenstorage door 626 is fully open.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example 700 of a storage compartmentdoor in a closed position to seal against a vehicle side panel (notshown). In a closed position, storage compartment door 726 may bevertical. Storage compartment door 726 may move between an open andclosed positions using one or more hinges 738. In an example, there aretwo hinges 738. Hinges 738 may be supported by hinge brackets 762. Hingebrackets 762 may be attached to a chassis rail or unibody portion 760.Storage compartment door 726 may be equipped with a wiring harness 761.Storage compartment door 726 may be equipped with one or more sensordevices 763, e.g., such as magnetic sensing devices or sending devices,or other sensors, to detect open and/or closed door position. Sensordevices 763 may be in electrical communication with the wiring harness761. In some examples, the sensor devices 763 may be magnets that maytrigger corresponding mating magnetic detection sensors located at apredetermined position at a vehicle wall that corresponds to thelocation of the magnets when the door is in a closed position, and insuch a situation, the wiring harness 761 may be placed at the vehiclewall instead of at the storage compartment door 726.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example 800 of a storage compartmentdoor connection to vehicle. In this example, storage compartment door826 may be connected to the vehicle using one or more hinges 838. In anexample, there are two hinges 838. Hinges 838 may be supported by ahinge support member 864. Hinge support member 864 may be connected toand supported by a hinge support bracket 866. Hinge support bracket 866may be attached to a chassis rail or unibody portion 860. In an openposition, storage compartment door 826 may uncover storage opening 828.In a closed position, storage compartment door 826 may close storageopening 828 such that door panel 840 may be in proximity with storageopening 828.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating an assembly 900 of a storagecompartment door in an open position with a second step in a closedposition. In this example, storage compartment door 926 is connected toa body portion 960 of the automotive vehicle via one or more hinges 938and moves between its open and closed positions using the one or morehinges 938. In examples, there may be two or more hinges 938. In thisexample, storage compartment door 926 may have a second step member 968movably attached, e.g., with a hinge mechanism, to a fixed step memberportion 969. Diagram 900 shows storage compartment door 926 in an openposition and second step member 968 in a closed (down) position suchthat a stepping surface 946 thereof is even with a stepping surface 946of fixed step member portion 969. An exemplary hinge (970 in FIG. 9B) ishidden when the storage compartment door 926 is in an position and whenthe second step member 968 is in the closed (down) position shown inFIG. 9A. A cable 948 or door strap may be attached at one end to thestorage compartment door 926 and connected at another end thereof to thevehicle chassis to limit the travel of and support the storagecompartment door 926. In some examples cable 948 may be connected to amotorized closing mechanism pulls the cable over a pulley (not shown) atthe vehicle chassis.

FIG. 9B shows the storage compartment door 926 in an open position and asecond step member 968 in an open position. Second step member 968 maymove between its open and closed positions using rails, or hinges, oranother suitable mechanism. In this example, the second step member 968can be moved by a user between its open and closed positions using oneor more hinges 970. In examples, there are two or more hinges 970. Whenthe second step member 968 is in an open (up) position, storagecompartment door 926 may provide two step surfaces—a first step surface974 and a second step surface 972, both of which may be suitable forsitting or standing or supporting items. In such a position, stepsurface 946, which was available for stepping, sitting, supporting,etc., with the position shown in FIG. 9A, is inaccessible for stepping,sitting, supporting, etc., with the position shown in FIG. 9B.

The second step surface 972 may be advantageously configured to behigher (farther above ground) than the first step surface 974. Thehigher second step surface 972 may allow a more convenient platform toreach or place items on the roof of the vehicle, or in a cargo bed.Having two step surfaces 972 and 974 when storage compartment door 926is in its open position may also provide advantages of providing moresupport surfaces on which to place items, permitting two people to siton the storage compartment door, and providing an easier path forstepping from the ground into cargo bed. In some examples, the storagecompartment door 926 may be configured with three steps, whereby a thirdstep member may be attached to the second step member 968 with hingessuch as discussed above.

FIGS. 10A-10B are diagrams illustrating an assembly 1000 of a storagecompartment door 1026 in an open position wherein the storagecompartment door 1026 includes an insert 1080 that covers a cavity 1082in the door 1026 and for which the insert 1080 can provide a positioningmechanism for articles being carried in the storage compartment 1024.FIG. 10A is a perspective view, and FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional viewtaken in along vertical plane and extending in a lateral direction alonga length of the storage compartment 1024 from a left side of the vehicleto the right side of the vehicle with the storage compartment door 1026in a closed position. In this example, storage compartment door 1026moves between its open and closed positions relative to body portion1060 using one or more hinges 1038. The exemplary storage compartmentdoor 1026 includes an insert 1080 that, when attached to the door 1026,covers the cavity 1082. The insert 1080 may include a first panel 1084,a second panel 1086 attached to the first panel, and one or morepositioning members 1088. The shape of the first panel 1084 and secondpanel 1086 may be configured to mate with the shape of the cavity 1082.When the insert 1080 is attached to the storage compartment door 1026,and when the storage compartment door 1026 is down in an open position(horizontal in this example), the exposed, upward-facing surface offirst panel 1084 can serve as a step member on which a user can step toaccess a roof of the automotive vehicle or gain better access to a truckbed of the automotive vehicle. An exemplary hinge (970 in FIG. 9B) ishidden when the storage compartment door 926 is in an position and whenthe second step member 968 is in the closed (down) position shown inFIG. 9A. As shown in this example, the hinge(s) 1038 can be configuredto be sufficiently strong and be limited in travel so that the storagecompartment door 1026 can serve as a weight-bearing step, e.g.,configured to support up to 500 pounds, without the need for a cable ordoor strap to limit the movement of the door 1026. In addition, amotorized opening and closing mechanism controlled by suitable switches,circuitry and wiring may be attached to the vehicle body and the door1026 to open and close the door. In some examples, a cable or door strap(not shown) may be attached at one end to the storage compartment door1026 and connected at another end thereof to the vehicle chassis tolimit the travel of and support the storage compartment door 1026, suchas described in connection with FIGS. 9A-9B. Suitable latching andlocking mechanisms for permitting the door to open and securely closemay be used as noted elsewhere herein.

As shown in the cross sectional view of FIG. 10B, the insert 1080 can beremoved from the storage compartment door 1026, if desired, and placedonto a bottom surface 1090 of the storage compartment 1024 in order tosupport and secure one or more articles 1092 being carried in thestorage compartment 1024. Such articles 1092 may be elongated, such as asnow ski (as illustrated in FIG. 10B), a piece of lumber, or other longitem. Where the storage compartment 1024 includes two storagecompartment doors 1026, one at each side (left and right) of theautomotive vehicle, a second similar insert 1080 can be provided at theother side of the vehicle on the bottom surface 1090 of the storagecompartment 1024. The insert(s) 1080 may be secured to the bottom of thestorage compartment 1024 at predetermined locations using any suitablelatches, slots, anchors, recesses, or other suitable way of securing theinserts 1080 to limit their movement and secure them in place. Inaddition, as shown in FIG. 10B, with the insert(s) 1080 secured to thebottom surface 1090 of the storage compartments 1024, the cavity 1082 isopen an exposed, providing additional lateral space into which a lengthyarticle 1092 may extend. In fact, the lateral extent of the storagecompartment 1024 (from the left side to the right side of the automotivevehicle) may span 180 cm or more, being limited by the ultimate width ofthe vehicle and the storage compartment door(s) 1026 as apparent fromthe discussion above.

Exemplary aspects of the exemplary insert 1080 are further shown in FIG.10C. As shown therein, the positioning members 1088 may be configured toextend from the plane of the second panel 1086, e.g., in the form ofadjacent fingers between which are formed slots 1094 into which articlesmay be inserted to be secured when the insert 1080 is positioned at thebottom surface 1090 of the storage compartment 1024. In this regard, thepositioning members 1088 (or fingers) may be formed of a resilientmaterial that may deform and/or bend and/or be compressed, such as foamrubber, e.g., covered with a durable fabric or plastic covering. Thepositioning members 1088 may be formed integrally with the second panel1086 such that both are made of the material(s), or the positioningmembers 1088 may be attached to the second panel 1086 using any suitablefastening mechanism, e.g., adhesives, clips, etc. Moreover, one or moreof the positioning members 1088 may be removable from and reattachableto the second panel 1086 using any suitable attachment mechanisms (e.g.,clips, slots, etc.) so as to provide flexibility in configuring thepositioning members 1088 to accommodate articles of different sizes.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another exemplary assembly 1100 of aside-access storage compartment door in an open position. In the exampleof FIG. 11, a storage compartment door 1126 includes a first member 1169(door member) connected to a body portion 1160 of an automotive vehiclevia one or more hinges 1138 and that opens sideways via the one or morefirst hinges 1138 exposing the storage compartment 1124. The exemplarystorage compartment door 1126 also includes a second member 1168 (stepmember) that folds downward from the door member 1169 of the compartmentdoor 1126 via one or more second hinges 1170. The step member 1168includes a step surface 1146 that is oriented substantially horizontallywhen the step member 1168 is folded down to provide a convenientstepping surface for a user. The door member 1169 also includes asurface 1171 that is oriented substantially vertically, so as to besubstantially perpendicular to the step surface 1146. As such, when thedoor member 1169 is open and when the step member 1168 is folded down,the combination of the door member 1168 and step member 1169 can beconfigured as a seat for a user, such that the step surface 1146provides a horizontal seating surface and the surface 1171 provides avertical back-support surface for the user. As with other examplesherein, surfaces 1146 and 1171 may be made of any suitable materialssuch as rubber, polymer materials, composites, etc., and the stepsurface 1146 may be configured as a non-skid surface, e.g., roughened orpatterned with grooves or the like to provide secure footing for a user.In other respects, other structural and functional features of doormembers and step members of a side-access storage compartment doordescribed herein are applicable to the example of FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating another exemplary assembly 1200 of aside-access storage compartment door in an open position. In the exampleof FIG. 12, a storage compartment door 1226 includes a first member 1269(door member) that opens sideways via one or more first hinges 1238 incombination with one or more sliding rail members 1251, each of whichincludes a first rail 1253 and a second rail 1255, exposing the storagecompartment 1224. In this example, exemplary storage compartmentassembly also includes a second member 1268 (step member) that foldsdownward from a body portion 1260 of the automotive vehicle via one ormore second hinges 1270. In this example, the second rail 1255 slidesrelative to the first rail 1253, and the second rail 1255 isadditionally connected to a rear surface of the door member 1269 via onemore third hinges (hidden in FIG. 12). Through the combination of thefirst and third hinges and the first and second rails 1253 and 1255, thedoor member 1269 is configured to swing and slide open relative to thebody portion 1260. The step member 1268 includes a step surface 1246that is oriented substantially horizontally when the step member 1268 isfolded down to provide a convenient stepping surface for a user. A majorsurface 1271 of the door member 1269 is oriented substantiallyvertically when the door member 1269 is both open or closed, so as to besubstantially perpendicular to the step surface 1246. As with otherexamples herein, surface 1246 may be made of any suitable materials suchas rubber, polymer materials, composites, etc., and the step surface1246 may be configured as a non-skid surface, e.g., roughened orpatterned with grooves or the like to provide secure footing for a user.In other respects, other structural and functional features of doormembers and step members of a side-access storage compartment doordescribed herein are applicable to the example of FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another exemplary assembly 1300 of aside-access storage compartment door in an open position. In the exampleof FIG. 13, a storage compartment door 1326 includes a first member 1369(door member) that opens sideways via one or more first hinges 1338 incombination with one or more sliding rail members 1351, each of whichincludes a first rail 1353 and a second rail 1355, exposing the storagecompartment 1224, such as descried above in connection with FIG. 13. Inthis example, exemplary storage compartment assembly also includes asecond member 1368 (step member) that slides outward from a body portion1360 of the automotive vehicle via one or more third rails 1370positioned in a slot 1373 of body portion 1360. In this example, thestep member 1368 is configured to slide out of and back into slot 1373,relative to and along with the rails 1370 that support the step member1368. In addition, the opening and closing of the door member 1369 is asdescribed for the example of FIG. 12, wherein the second rail 1355slides relative to the first rail 1353, and the second rail 1355 isadditionally connected to a rear surface of the door member 1369 via onemore third hinges (hidden in FIG. 13). Through the combination of thefirst and third hinges and the first and second rails 1353 and 1355, thedoor member 1369 is configured to swing and slide open relative to thebody portion 1360. With the door member 1369 in an open position, thestep member 1368 can be slid outward, e.g., via pulling outward with thehand of a user. In addition, the step member 1368 includes a stepsurface 1346 that is oriented substantially horizontally when the stepmember 1368 is slid outward to provide a convenient stepping surface fora user. A major surface 1371 of the door member 1369 is orientedsubstantially vertically when the door member 1369 is both open orclosed, so as to be substantially perpendicular to the step surface1346. As with other examples herein, surface 1346 may be made of anysuitable materials such as rubber, polymer materials, composites, etc.,and the step surface 1346 may be configured as a non-skid surface, e.g.,roughened or patterned with grooves or the like to provide securefooting for a user. In other respects, other structural and functionalfeatures of door members and step members of a side-access storagecompartment door described herein are applicable to the example of FIG.13.

In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as “at leastone of” or “one or more of” may occur followed by a conjunctive list ofelements or features. The term “and/or” may also occur in a list of twoor more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitlycontradicted by the context in which it is used, such a phrase isintended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually orany of the recited elements or features in combination with any of theother recited elements or features. It should also be understood that asused in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow,the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the descriptionherein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in”includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Finally, as used in the description herein and throughout the claimsthat follow, the meanings of “and” and “or” include both the conjunctiveand disjunctive and may be used interchangeably unless the contextexpressly dictates otherwise; the phrase “exclusive or” may be used toindicate situation where only the disjunctive meaning may apply. Inaddition, as used in the description herein and throughout the claimsthat follow, the meaning of “about” and/or “approximately” refers to±10% of the quantity indicated, unless otherwise indicated. In addition,use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean,“based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or elementis also permissible.

The subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems,apparatus, methods, and/or articles depending on the desiredconfiguration. The implementations set forth in the foregoingdescription do not represent all implementations consistent with thesubject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examplesconsistent with aspects related to the described subject matter.Although a few variations have been described in detail above, othermodifications or additions are possible. In particular, further featuresand/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein.For example, the implementations described above can be directed tovarious combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed featuresand/or combinations and subcombinations of several further featuresdisclosed above. Other implementations may be within the scope of thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An automotive vehicle with a storage compartment,comprising: a cabin; a set of rear wheels located behind the cabin; acargo space; and a closable integrated storage compartment assemblylocated adjacent to the cabin, rearward of a rear-most seat of theautomotive vehicle, and forward of the set of rear wheels, comprising:at least one sidewall enclosing an interior portion of the storagecompartment and extending from a first side panel at a first side of theautomotive vehicle toward a second side of the automotive vehicle, afirst opening to the storage compartment at the first side of theautomotive vehicle, and a first door at the first opening, wherein thefirst door comprises a first step member with a horizontal step surfacewhen open, at least a portion of the closable integrated storagecompartment being positioned forward of a forward wall of the cargospace.
 2. The automotive vehicle of claim 1, comprising a latchmechanism to secure the first door in a closed position.
 3. Theautomotive vehicle of claim 1, wherein the storage compartment assemblyfurther comprises a second door at a second opening of the storagecompartment, the second opening at the second side of the automotivevehicle.
 4. The automotive vehicle of claim 1, further comprising asafety lock that prevents vehicle operation when the first door is open.5. The automotive vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first door is capableof opening downward, such that when open, the first door issubstantially parallel to a ground surface.
 6. The automotive vehicle ofclaim 5, wherein the first door comprises a second step memberpositioned at a second height different from a first height of the firststep member.
 7. The automotive vehicle of claim 1, wherein the cargospace comprises a cargo bed, and wherein the storage compartment is notpositioned under the cargo bed.
 8. The automotive vehicle of claim 1,wherein the storage compartment assembly further comprises aweatherproof seal between the first door and the first opening.
 9. Aclosable storage compartment assembly of an automotive vehicle,comprising: at least one wall enclosing a storage space, the storagespace extending through a width of the automotive vehicle, the storagespace located adjacent to a vehicle cabin and rearward of a rear-mostseat of the automotive vehicle, at least a portion of the storage spacebeing located forward of a forward wall of a cargo space of theautomotive vehicle; a first opening at a first side of the automotivevehicle, and a second opening at a second side of the automotivevehicle; a first door attached to a body of the automotive vehicle atthe first opening, and a second door attached to the body of theautomotive vehicle at the second opening; and a first mechanismconfigured to open and close the first door, and a second mechanismconfigured to open and close the second door.
 10. The automotive vehicleof claim 9, wherein the first door is configured to open downward toprovide a step configured to support a load of up 500 lbs.
 11. Theautomotive vehicle of claim 9, wherein the first door further comprisesa storage receptacle.
 12. The automotive vehicle of claim 9, wherein thestorage space is not in the cabin.
 13. The automotive vehicle of claim9, further comprising a wiring harness supplying electrical power to thefirst door.
 14. The automotive vehicle of claim 13, further comprisingsensors in electrical communication with the wiring harness.
 15. Acombination step and storage assembly for an automotive vehicle,comprising: at least one wall enclosing a storage space, the storagespace extending into a body of an automotive vehicle from a side of theautomotive vehicle, the side of the automotive vehicle extending betweena front of the automotive vehicle and a rear of the automotive vehicle;a first door configured to access the storage space at the side of theautomotive vehicle; and a weight-bearing horizontal step provided by thefirst door when open to facilitate access to a roof of the automotivevehicle, at least a portion of the storage space being positionedforward of a forward wall of a cargo space of the automotive vehicle.16. The combination step and storage assembly of claim 15, wherein thefirst door is configured to swing open downward and stop at a horizontalposition to provide the weight-bearing horizontal step.
 17. Thecombination step and storage assembly of claim 15, further comprising anaccess door to the storage space from the cabin.
 18. The combinationstep and storage assembly of claim 15, the cargo space being locatedrearward of a rear seat of the automotive vehicle, further comprising athird door between the storage space and the cargo space, the third doorconfigured to be opened to permit access to the storage space from thecargo space.
 19. The combination step and storage assembly of claim 15,wherein a volume of the storage space is between about 6 cubic feet andabout 15 cubic feet.
 20. The combination step and storage assembly ofclaim 15, wherein the first door is configured to open sideways, suchthat when open, a step surface of the first door is substantiallyperpendicular to a ground surface.
 21. The combination step and storageassembly of claim 15, wherein the automotive vehicle is a unibody truckcomprising a roof, wherein the cargo space comprises a cargo bed. 22.The combination step and storage assembly of claim 15, the first doorcomprising a cavity and a removable insert at an interior side of thefirst door, the removable insert when attached to the first doorcovering the cavity, the removable insert configured to be anchoredwithin the storage compartment, the removable insert includingpositioning members configured to constrain movement of one or morearticles carried in the storage compartment.